It is my cup of tea

"Do you like Brahms?" is a drama that teaches me about the things that makes life so graceful. This drama may not be everyone's cup of tea, but for me, journeying with this drama is like sipping my fine tea on a lovely afternoon. Like my green tea, this drama wont give a strong and special impression, just simple and sweet feeling. That moment when you hear people playing their instruments somehow relates to that nice warm feeling when you smell from the aroma of the tea leaves. Its that kind of magic.

The story itself is something I would love to enjoy like how I would enjoy my tea. One sip at a time, feeling its flavor as the aroma engulfs your soul. I love how it was subtle and slow, that as I went through it, I gradually feel its elegance from the bits and pieces of emotion finally settling in towards the end. As tea comes with different unique flavors, so was the characters in the drama. Everyone character was like those different type of flavors, others were more bitter than sweet and some are too sweet to be bitter. But even for me, I appreciate all of them, no matter how bitter and sweet they are.

What made it special to me was because it was not special.
Its a mundane drama that reminds me of my love for tea.
I love it.

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I have high hopes for this drama, since this is the most recent remake of the manga. I've watched the other versions, and for some reason as I have watched the other versions I said to myself, "Why does this feels different?" I feel like that because I didn't see the essence of the manga version until I watched the recent remake in Japanese version. There is something in this version that gives a similar essence in the manga story line, which has so far lived up to my expectations and will really live up to if they produce a second season fast! I was satisfied as to how they tried to make a remake version that is closest to the manga, although not identically similar, but gives the closest feel. For example, Naoki's character. Furukawa Yuki's naoki was the most closest character portrayal of Irie Naoki in the manga. His version of Irie Naoki is the one I love the most, and the main reason why I was really hooked up into this drama even when the story/plot/characters are not new to me.
The story, well, its not something new, especially if you read the manga, saw the previous versions, and watched the anime. Even for me, I memorized the plot and characters in my head, and even unconsciously, I can point out some dialogues in the different versions. (I am a fan of the manga). If you are watching this for the first time, and that this is a new story for you, you might get to enjoy it especially if you are a fan of typical rom-com doramas. Its fun and entertaining in a way. Its sweet and lovely at many points. Its cliched and dramatic at certain levels. The stupidity and drama mixes well and goes along at each character's development in the story especially in Irie Naoki's character. The aspect that I admire the most in this drama is the character portrayal. There is something in the characters that will make you fall in love in them. They give me the feels of the manga. for example, when I watched Kin Hyun Joong playing as Irie in playful kiss, I was like "This is not Irie Naoki at all, This was more of a overacting naoki." but when I saw Furukawa as Irie, I was like "This is the Irie character I have been looking for, the Naoki that is the smart-aloof guy with serious EI problems." His character is the reason why kotoko does not seem very annoying compared to the "kotoko" on k version that is seriously annoying which literally stress me out.

For me, it was that good and satisfying that I downloaded the entire drama so that I can rewatch it again. :) Patiently waiting for season 2!

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When I watched the first two episodes of legal high, I didn't expect it to be funny and silly. I expect it to be a bit dramatic and romantic (see the photo in its page and you'll understand). nevertheless, I get hooked to it and I can say it's definitely one of the best original stories ever!

The story was really outstanding! It could confuse you, mislead you, make you laugh out loud, get teary because of its silliness and absurdities, and most importantly it could put you to minutes of silence and ponder about reality issues about justice, humanity, and society. The story is well written that it amuses me to the point that I get frustrated of how my emotions are being tricked while watching the drama. For a second you may thought that you may have to cry for the dramatic atmosphere and then comes the feeling of betrayal because of the realization of how absurd it is. (you will understand this feeling if you completed this! seriously!) It is very comical yet it contains depth. At one point it will make you laugh and at some point it will get you all serious. The story is perfect when it comes to absurdities, humor, silliness, morale, depth. It is a profound masterpiece of a complex ironic combination of law and comedy.
The actors and actresses did a really really great job in portraying the characters. I can say Sakai Masato must be a veteran in acting. Usually Im the type of drama person who fell in love with a drama character if the actor playing it is oh-so handsome regardless of its annoying personality(Enrique in flower boy next door for example). Im in love with Komikado-sensei not because of his looks, but because of his unique personality well acted by Masato-sensei. The drama would not be that amusing if not for the good work of portraying awesome characters by talented actors and actresses. Miki-sensei, Mayuzumi, Hattori-san, and Ranmaru are examples of such work of art.
Music was surprisingly entertaining especially the opening song. For 2 months after watching the drama, I always recall the opening song in my head and mutter the beat unconsciously making people around me think I'm crazy.
From time to time, I would watch legal high and replay the scenes in the court wherein Komikado-sensei and Machiko is at its most hyperactive and funniest. I just cant get over of its silliness. very amusing indeed.
In conclusion, this drama is a must-must watch! It would not fail you to laugh and go crazy of its absurdities. Most of all, it will really realize you of some lessons of the realities and complexities of human nature and the society where humans live.

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"The lone-woman freelance surgeon Daimon Michiko is up again for another season! Things would get to be interesting!" This is my first impression as I have watched the first episode of this drama.
Frankly, I enjoyed this drama, but I like the first season much more compared to this one. I say, the major theme of this drama, just like many medical dramas, is about what I would like to term as "hospital politics."
Onto the story, I would say it doesn't get boring, but I find many characters simply annoying and irritating. If you went through the story, I think you would find who this really irritating characters are that deserves to have a punch in the face. Anyways, good plot I suppose. (the ending totally rocks!) Many though not all characters showed good development throughout the series. The show presented good values especially in relation to the medical profession. There are also some cheap under-the-table-tricks-to-climb-the-social-ladder issues presented and that might just be true in the real setting. What makes this story interesting for me is that, it is highly medically-themed & find me weird but I do enjoy the different surgeries and the medical terms and conditions presented throughout the drama.They seemed unrealistic (but when I googled it, it suprises me they are realistic really!) The second factor I enjoyed in the story is Daimon's personality. Very strong personality. I like it when she interacts with other "no-good" doctors, I just love how they would make an expression in their face when Daimon aggregates them. I also like the melon-grandpa.Very cute and cunning.
The acting was nicely put. I can see some overreactions but so far, the acting satisfies me.
The music was so-so, I guess I haven't really focused much on the music but I think its there and also giving the atmosphere and the feels. :)
Re-watch value? Its not really a big re-watch value for me, It's the kind of series that can satisfy me enough just watching the first time around.
In conclusion, Good medical story. Awesome characters. Cool Actors/Actresses. Good Music. A nice watch.

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It is such a waste that this drama has come to an end. It was originally planned to be a 16-episode drama, but then it was shortened due to low ratings. Personally, I see so much potential in the drama, and it is such a waste that its never given a chance to shine. I'll have my opinions on its potential on the different categories:

Story: The story itself gives off a unique vibe. it is refreshing to see a fantasy movie having a good dose of drama and comedy. This is not your usual Korean romantic-comedy drama. While the story mainly centers in romance, some themes such as camaraderie, friendship, and fighting spirit can be seen, which is not commonly paired in Korean Rom-com dramas. This is what gives the story much potential. Its lighthearted atmosphere makes it easy to watch, the little crossover parodies would totally nail the spotlight, the little doodle markings gives a cute tone to the drama. The plot pacing was actually nice, I like how confusing the plot is as deeper the story would go, but when it was cut down to a rushed end, it made a big change in the story and is therefore the impact completely disappeared. The characters are totally one-of-a-kind, especially the surplus friends and the mermaid. They are fun and entertaining to watch. I actually like the romantic part of the show, and in contrast to the public demand OTP (chef guy and mermaid girl). I wanted to see more of the other couple (surplus boy and mermaid girl). I'm not contented with the amount of chemistry they had, especially when it looks so forced at the end. The side couples are pretty cute to watch too, they could totally steal the spotlight in doing so. In conclusion, as much as the story and romance has such potential, it was cut down to 10-episodes, and the plot and romance totally suffered from it.

Acting/Cast: I can say that the acting is a bit over the top and annoying at times. However, even with this said, the cast is actually good. Personally I love the character portrayal. They did a nice job in portraying the character quite well. Its like they can make the character real funny and dramatic in the given appropriate atmosphere. Song Jae Rim, was especially a good actor that totally gets into his role as the sweet chef guy in the drama. I like it that he's the second lead, but that he's acting would totally convince you that he can be a main lead (and thus second lead syndrome).

Music: I gave music a higher rating, I like it that there are some crossovers of some OSTs from other dramas, nice Korean songs (some even made to be parodies), and even an anime opening song (anime fan here). The music totally contribute to the lighthearted atmosphere of the show and the comedic aspect of it.

Overall, I felt disheartened that this show has come to an end. As I have emphasized, the show has so much potential, yet it was never given a chance. I would love to see the complete bloom of this show. Nevertheless, It wasn't really a pain to watch, I enjoy watching it. It gave me a good laugh and some feels. I love the pairing even though I feel it is not justified and was forced in the end. There is so much potential in the chemistry of the pairing, and again, it was never given a chance.

I would recommend surplus princess for a nice change of pace in dramas, but don't expect much from it. Just watch it with an open mind, go with the flow of the story, engross yourself with the characters and it will be fun to watch! :3

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The idea of inner beauty and authentic happiness is what makes the theme of this drama shine. This series is a must watch to those women out there who needs constant confidence and self-esteem needed to become successful in life. The story clearly defines the main theme for the story: The quest for real happiness in rooted deep within and conquered by one's one self worth and dignity. Though this theme is not a new concept, it is certainly classic and refreshing. Though the plot of the story contains many loop holes (or is it just me not understanding some points of the story). I can say the some scenes are not clearly emphasized, but it definitely follows a certain flow, and its is well balanced. It is also surprising but the distribution of comedy is also well balanced. I like the atmosphere of the story, very refreshing, certainly dramatic and sensibly comical. The cast and acting was cool, The actors and actresses did a great job to portray their character well. I was really onto their acting. The music is a total give-in, It fits the theme, very inspirational and breathtaking. I can say the quality of music portrays the emotions shown throughout the series. It inspired me and even brought to tears. Re-watch value is okay, but for me, I don't have the feel to re-watch it, just once is best and enough. Overall, it is definitely recommended. It is very touching and inspirational, not to mention it has a well balanced dose of drama and comedy.

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Liar Game was simply epic.

The story was quite good, it was very heavy on the central theme of the drama, (which is totally my genre). The one thing I love the most in this drama is the plot development, something that would really make you ponder of what would happen next. The series was full of interesting twists and turns. Mostly of the story involves a surreal environment, yet many morals of the series turns out to be applicable in real life. it is a the twisted surreal setting creatively compared to the present real situations in life. It also shows explicitly the very face of human nature. A very good psychological drama, that touches the realms of surreal environment and gives interesting viewpoints of reality.
The cast was well selected, all actors and actresses are totally in to their role, especially Matsuda Shota and Toda Erika, their acting capacity is seriously good, you can immediately tell the kind of personality a certain character has by just watching at their gestures and acting skills. They do outstanding facial expressions, one that will lure you to an idea inversely proportionate to the actual idea embodied in the story. Music was totally in, it fits the nature and setting of the story, mind-blogging and twisted. I would say a 10 of 10 for a rewatch value, especially if you are a fan of mind-blogging trick games and or if you want a deeper understanding of the story and the nature of each trick presented. In a over-all rate, I give it a 10, this is not the type of melodrama that brings you tears or makes you fall in love, but it is the type of drama that disturbs your ideals and test your brains. :)

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This drama has its own spark, so I'm writing this review based on how I understand and feel this version without comparing it to the Korean version. :)

The story. It was good, there are numerous scenes that displays development in each character, especially the two main leads, Mio & Ren. There was a well balanced theme of Romance, Drama, and Comedy. Story line was well developed and smoothly progressing.

The acting. I am so in love with Tamamori Yuta's acting here, a pure dose of emotion is seen every twists and turns of this drama. I can say that the acting was very outstanding since every character was given depth, which can make you totally engrossed in them. you can actually feel the character's "glow" as you progress in the drama.

The music. the quality of music is very nice, and so much like Kis-my-ft2-style, which is actually my bias.

Rewatch value. If you are really a fan of gender-bender genre or harem genre, this is surely a re-watch! or if you are Yuta-kun's die hard fan, (like me) re-watch value was pretty recommended. :)

Overall impact. Definetely superb. smooth plot, well-balanced story line, great character developments, wonderful acting, and refreshing music. :) Definetely a watch!

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For starters, it was a pretty good detective/police movie. The thing with detective dramas is that there is always that tension in each story presented, which is why you would have that sudden urge to pay attention to every character/clue/event in detail in the hopes of outsmarting the main lead to discover to criminal. This drama is a typical example of that. The story basically focuses a detective story with an amazing twisted plot. The story also deals with issues about complicated situations in life. You know, that part of life wherein dilemmas are often re-occurring and gambling decisions became sensible choices. I can say it is a quality story. The cast is cool, especially when we expect Matsuda Shota on the main lead. I can say that his character was one of the unique characters-that-is-usually-difficult-to-portray since it involves dressing up and pretending to be someone else. For such a changing character at every episode, He did quite a skillful job. The music quite good. I am a thumbs-up for it. re-watch value is okay, but as for me, I didn't find it quite an intimidating movie to be watched again. I mean, The first time I watched it, I was quite contented. Overall, it was a cool movie, because it has a package of a good twist, a steady storyline (though quite lacking), wonderful characters, and interesting reality viewpoints.

Plus, it is a Matsuda Shota-movie, so that made the impact! (For me, since I'm his fan) :)

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Fist fights, Knuckle punch, High-kick, and Uppercuts. Yes, you have to be a fan of these fighting-brawling-shouting-motorcycle-riding-and-weird-looking-fashion-gangster-style to truly enjoy this drama. yup, and truly I am one of them. This theme might be too mainstream in the world of J-dramas, but nevertheless, as an avid fan of this style, it was fun and enjoyable. The story may not be that interesting, but it was quite inspirational to me (I was really crying in some of the episodes!). Comedy, romance and drama was well-balanced in this story, personally, I love the comedy style. The epic facial expressions and don't forget the fall-here-fall-there-fall-everywhere comedy acts was truly funny. Romance was not truly emphasized, but its still there, and is a essential theme point in the whole plot. There is a nice character development throughout the series, especially in the 4 main leads. Acting was cool and truly amusing, the characters are very well emphasized especially onto the portrayals of each of their personality. Music, is well, fine, I didn't pay attention to much to the music, I was more onto the story and characters, but I guess, It created the "atmosphere" of the story. you know, that background music when heroes comes to the scene? yes, that type of "feel" is definitely what makes the quality of music a fit. Re-watch value was okay, as for me, I just past-backward a little bit just to re-watch the epic comedy scenes throughout the series and even pause for that moment when epic faces show up.:) Overall, It was cool and nice, truly inspirational, certainly gives a big laugh, makes you want to fall in love and cry a bit. :) Very Amusing Indeed. Worth a watch.

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HAMMER SESSION is one of those dramas that can seriously question you about the workings of life.
The story mainly deals an important cinematic concept: DRAMA
While the story revolves around values that are portrayed dramatically realistic, it is on the other hand mutually inspiring. Each episode deals realistic problems amongst society which is tackled and processed by following a certain philosophical content. The plot remains simple, yet its flow is filled with overflowing emotional concepts and teary-eyed scenes which makes the series a golden. As a personal judgement, I find every story and every plot in the series extravagant, in a way it is rich in values, words, and emotions. I was totally engrossed with each stories presented in the drama, and I was left with no room to ponder about the next happening.
The cast was very familiar to me, since I stumbled upon them across different Japanese dramas. The actors and actresses here are all my bias, and I believe that they are totally in to their character as well. (They are great in crying, I swear!) They are of that type that can totally draw out emotions unto you. You will be mesmerized by their acting.
I am not a fan of music in dramas so I didn't pay close attention to it, but the background music seems to add spice amongst the emotional scenes depicted, so I think music is quite influential.
I give a not-so-high score for a re-watch value since, this type of drama can be a satisfying watch, but it will leave you that. The story leaves you to a satisfying end, inspiring enough but less entertaining.
In conclusion, it was outstanding, since the over-all factor of a drama is the satisfaction the viewer get by watching the drama. It was a truly inspiring drama, packed with teary dramatic concepts and real-time values. :)
Definetely a watch!

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The essence of Wagashi or the traditional sweets in Japan.

Japanese stories are known for their explicit display of that mundane culture and turn it to something meaningful and beautiful. In this drama, it was centered upon the art of making traditional sweets called "wagashi".
The culture of wagashi is an interesting genre to explore for me, since I'm foreign to it. It was particularly catching to me since the characters show deep entanglement with that mundane culture. Its just about making sweets, but why does it feel so twisted and complicated? I just love it when Japanese writers do that.
Its something so simple...characters show varied emotions, thoughts, ideas, and eccentricities that were somehow revolving around the story yet those building emotions felt very central to that culture which makes it very complicated. You would want to make your way through the story because you get entangled as well. It catches you with your emotions as well.
I also commend the actors and actresses in this drama. The main leads did a very good job and this is the first time I have seen them. I love their chemistry. The main lead would likely end up to be one of my favorite Japanese actor!
Overall, if you plan to watch this drama, you are in for a treat! literally! and you might want to do a little research on the wagashi culture. When you understand how significant this culture is, you might find this drama more interesting!

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The one thing I like the most of the plot of the story is the character development and eye candy stuffs. I seriously fell into the character of the main male lead (with his cute looks too!). Throughout the story, you can really see the characters growing and I learned many lessons too, especially about self-esteem and love. All the actors and actresses did a great job in portraying the role and the story is fresh and new. It was nice to try something quite different than the natural plot of most romance-slash-melodrama. The music was quite catchy and entertaining, it seriously fits the mood/atmosphere of the scene. Right now, I'm watching it for the second time around, I can't get over of Enrique's character. I also have a good laugh with this drama...
all in all, the greatest strength of this movie was that, it has plot depth and heavy in center themes, which means that in the plot, you can clearly distinguish the initial action, climax, and denouement. It is heavy in center theme because the conflict that arises is clearly seen evolving alongside with each character development. Connections are clear. It was a good drama, refreshing, original, and seriously entertaining! (insert Enrique's smile! kyaaaa~~~~)

Flower Boy Next Door Fighting!

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As much as I try to stay away from Chinese dramas, this drama lured me in at last. For one, the synopsis of this show has really caught my attention. Second, I have decided its time to break my shell and expand my horizons on Asian dramas. (This is my first Chinese drama btw)

I completed this show without negative feelings or frustrations, (though I did cry a little, but that is so because they're tears of joy) so it is quite hard for me to critique this one (well I'm not a critique in the first place)

It is particularly straight forward and simple in their approach in everything. No conflicts, no dramas, no plot twists. It is really easy to watch, so don't complicate yourself when you do watch it.

This show particularly attracted me because I have involved myself in a love kinda like this (basically story of my life-ish). The type of love shown in the show is not the kind of love most people often see in mainstream shows--or even in real life. I call it an introvert's love.

I agree, this show doesn't feel realistic and it is overly cliche but we all like to feel them butterflies in the stomach right? If that is so, this show won't disappoint you.

As for the actors and actresses, I love them. I am not so focused in their delivery of the skill (acting) but Its just really refreshing to see them act with their beautiful faces and quirky antics.

Overall, this show gives me a new feeling. Part of it is because I am not too familiar with Chinese culture and also because--well that's what mostly it is. So, I can say that would be a good watch! (especially if you are a(n) girl, introvert, gamer, nerd or human for that matter)

Final note: The story may disappoint you, or maybe the language, or maybe the number of episodes will, but Yang yang definitely won't. That's all. ^^

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